Most of you will know how I am incredibly passionate about social justice and equally how social injustice affects people in South Africa. In 6 weeks I am heading home after a year and a half and I will be reminded of this. This matters to me, but what matters more is how in some way I can go home with a little Christmas gift...

My uncle is a semi-retired MD and spends some of his time giving financial and management advice to the Heartlands Baby Sanctuary in Cape Town. This little haven provides short term residential care for abandoned, abused, neglected children who ages vary from birth to approximately 6 years. These children are often also diagnosed with life limiting and life threatening illnesses such as Malnutrition, HIV/AIDS, Cancer, and Tuberculosis.

The main aim for Heartlands is to ensure every child in their care enters back into the community. This is either through reunification, fostering or adoption. It is also recognises that these children have a right to belong in the security and love of a family while they are there.

Some of these children will still be there over Christmas and I will be visiting them with my uncle. I would so much like to offer a gift from us. My plan is to go on a little shopping spree with whatever I am able to raise and just meet their needs at this time of the year, whether it be baby formula, diapers, some yummy treats, or fluffy toys.

I would be so grateful for any support you are able to offer.

Thank you.

Carly.

P.S. Here is a link to the website if you are interested in knowing more:

http://www.heartlandsbaby.org/